Cohesive layers

Use cohesive layers to model delamination in the Simcenter Samcef, Simcenter Nastran, and Simcenter 3D Multiphysics solver environments. In Simcenter Nastran, only the SOL 401 Multi-Step Nonlinear solution supports cohesive elements.

You specify the cohesive layers between plies in your global layup.

For each cohesive layer, you need to specify a damage interface material.

Global Ply ID	Composition	Thickness	Angle	Status	Description	Solid Property
3	PPG-5H-3K	1	0	Up-to-date
c5	Cohesive1	0	0	Cohesive Layer	Cohesive Layer
2	PPG-5H-3K	1	0	Up-to-date
c4	Cohesive1	0	0	Cohesive Layer	Cohesive Layer
1	PPG-5H-3K	1	0	Up-to-date

When you inflate the laminate, the software creates cohesive element meshes in addition to ply meshes. Each cohesive mesh is stored in a separate mesh collector that points to a Cohesive Property physical property. The physical property stores the material that you specified for the cohesive layer.

3D Collectors
Laminate1–Extrusion
Laminate1–Ply1
Laminate1–Ply2
Laminate1–Ply3
Laminate1–Cohesive4
Laminate1–Cohesive4
Laminate1–Cohesive5
Laminate1–Cohesive5

Cohesive elements

Cohesive elements represent a homogeneous layer used to assess the normal and shear damage between plies. The software uses 3D bricks or wedges with a zero initial thickness to model this interface layer. For more details, see Understanding the Samcef cohesive element (Simcenter Samcef) and Simcenter Nastran Multi-Step Nonlinear User's Guide.

Where do I find it?

Application	Pre/Post
Prerequisite	You must work in the FEM within the Simcenter Samcef, Simcenter Nastran, or Simcenter 3D Multiphysics solver environments.
Command Finder	Global Layup
Location in dialog box	Layup Definition group→Create New Cohesive Layer

How do I

Create a cohesive layer

Learn more

Understanding the Samcef cohesive element (Simcenter Samcef)

Understanding the non-local behavior for solid laminates (Simcenter Samcef)

Ply-based workflow

Defining plies and a stacking sequence

Quick links

Command reference

Pre/Post video examples

Bulk Entry Descriptions

Simcenter 3D tutorials

Browse Simcenter 3D help by product area

Cohesive layers, Simcenter 3D 2021.1 Series

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